Blog

In this rib-tickling episode, Koji, Dwayne, and Cat hilariously stumble into the bizarre and often sidesplitting world of cursed objects and superstitions, joined by guest writer and comedian Vanessa Graddick. They tackle the legendary tale of James Dean’s Porsche 550 Spyder, ominously dubbed “Little Bastard” (because apparently, “Speedy McDeathtrap” was already taken), diving headfirst into the alleged curse that accompanied the iconic actor’s tragic fate. The conversation effortlessly swerves through cultural insights and personal anecdotes, from comically wishing playful curses on everyday annoyances like malfunctioning podcast equipment (is it too much to ask for a tech exorcism?) and road rage offenders (who really should have their own lane on the highway to nowhere), to captivating chats about unlucky numbers and the curious legacy of cursed items. This episode serves up humor with a side of nostalgia, taking listeners on a giggle-inducing ride through Hollywood’s dark legends and playful banter, all while pondering whether these curses are just coincidences or supernatural shenanigans pulling a fast one on us.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Vanessa Graddick is a fearless stand-up comedian and producer known for her sharp wit, emotional depth, and fast-paced delivery. A former social worker turned comic, she’s toured internationally, entertained U.S. troops, and appeared on Comedy Central, BET, and The Real Husbands of Hollywood. Behind the scenes, she’s produced for Funny You Should Ask and The Gossip Queens, blending humor with heart in everything she touches.

RESEARCH

We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.

https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/james-deans-car-cursed.htm#:~:text=A%20man%20contacted%20me%20stating,the%20mystery%20of%20the%20disappearance.%22

https://www.britannica.com/biography/James-Dean-American-actor

ABOUT US

What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.

Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w

CREDITS

The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.

Written by Ryan Le

Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai

In this episode of the Japanese America Podcast titled “Legacy of Hope: Clara Breed’s Letters and the Art of Compassion,” hosts Koji and Michelle embark on a touching exploration of the enduring power of empathy and small acts of kindness. They begin by sharing personal anecdotes about the impactful teachers in their lives, setting the stage for the inspiring story of Clara Breed, a courageous children’s librarian from San Diego during World War II. Clara Breed’s quiet defiance against the forced incarceration of Japanese American families is highlighted through her thoughtful gestures of sending letters and supplies to children in camps, creating a vital link to the outside world. The episode draws poignant parallels between Breed’s actions and the historical support of the Quakers, reflecting on the lost art of letter writing and its lasting impact on human connection. Through heartwarming excerpts from the letters exchanged between Miss Breed and the children, listeners are reminded of the profound impact small, compassionate acts can have, even amidst adversity. Join Koji and Michelle as they honor Clara Breed’s legacy and inspire listeners to become beacons of hope in their own communities.

For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.

CREDITS

The music was created by Jalen Blank

Written by Koji Steven Sakai

Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited by Michelle Malazaki

Produced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum

Award-winning comedian Augie Smith takes us on a humorous journey through the whimsical worlds of quirky furniture and stand-up comedy. We explore imaginative furniture concepts, like a gaudy Trump chair and a multifunctional Allison coat rack, while also delving into Augie’s comedic beginnings and his evolution in the stand-up scene. As we navigate through the eccentricities of retail conspiracy theories, we debunk myths about Wayfair’s alleged involvement in child trafficking and ponder the curious clustering of Mattress Firm stores. With engaging discussions on flirting in Trader Joe’s aisles and deciphering store layouts, this episode promises a rollercoaster of laughter and insightful banter. Join us for a delightful mix of comedy, conspiracies, and quirky anecdotes that highlight the peculiar intersections of everyday life.

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Auggie Smith is an award-winning stand-up comedian known for his fast-paced delivery and sharp social satire. He’s the only comic to win both the San Francisco and Seattle Comedy Competitions in the same year, and he’s a longtime favorite on The Bob & Tom Show. With appearances on Comedy Central and Last Comic Standing, Auggie continues to tour nationally, delivering smart, biting comedy that hits hard and fast.

RESEARCH

We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/factcheck/2020/07/22/fact-check-wayfair-not-involved-child-sex-trafficking/5460739002/

https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/wayfair-trafficking-children/

https://www.politifact.com/article/2020/jul/15/how-wayfair-child-sex-trafficking-conspiracy-theor/

https://sell.wayfair.com/start-beginners-guide#:~:text=Drop%2Dshipping%20is%20Wayfair’s%20primary,order%20directly%20to%20the%20customer

https://nypost.com/shopping/wayfair-furniture-review/#:~:text=For%20years%2C%20Wayfair%20has%20been%20a%20leading,always%20has%20a%20good%20sale%20going%20on

ABOUT US

What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.

Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w

CREDITS

The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.

Written by Emily Le

Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai

In this engaging episode of the Japanese America Podcast, hosts Michelle and Koji take listeners on a nostalgic journey through the vibrant summer festivities of Japanese American culture. They share delightful anecdotes from events like Obon and Nisei Week, highlighting the unique traditions and foods that make these celebrations special. The episode features a captivating interview with Helen Ota, the 2025 Nisei Week Foundation President, who discusses her leadership journey and contributions to the community, including her work with the Cold Tofu improv group.

For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org.

CREDITS

The music was created by Jalen Blank

Written by Koji Steven Sakai

Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and produced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum

Ever pondered if those infamous Roswell aliens were just misunderstood Soviet children on an intergalactic field trip? In this hilariously speculative episode, we dive headfirst into the absurd with hosts Koji, Dwayne, and Cat, as they debate who among them would be the most irresistible human for alien abduction. Between considering clever escape tactics and trying to annoy extraterrestrial captors into releasing them, the hosts promise plenty of laughs. The trio also examines the legendary Roswell incident, exploring its quirky theories—imagine Soviet children with special needs posing as aliens! Amidst this cosmic chaos, they humorously explore conspiracy theories, the nuances of infidelity with extraterrestrials, and the awkward moments of mistaking mannequins for naked people on the highway. With a whimsical take on humanity, this episode is a delightful blend of humor, curiosity, and the undeniable charm of human absurdity.

RESEARCH

We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.

https://www.history.com/articles/roswell-ufo-aliens-what-happened

https://tucson.com/news/national/book-roswell-ufo-was-russian-craft-aliens-were-nazi-experiments/article_f698b1ca-8564-11e0-897e-001cc4c002e0.html

https://www.britannica.com/event/Roswell-incident

The 1947 Roswell Incident

https://science.howstuffworks.com/space/aliens-ufos/history-roswell-incident.htm

https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/reports-ufos-1947-roswell-incident

ABOUT US

What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening. 

Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w

CREDITS

The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.

Written by Shaina Chi

Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai

In this month’s episode, we dive into the fascinating world of modern mind control theories, tracing their origins from the infamous MKUltra experiments to their potential reincarnations in today’s digital age. The discussion raises thought-provoking questions about the role of digital platforms like TikTok and social media in shaping our perceptions and behaviors, speculating whether these trends are mere entertainment or sophisticated tools of psychological influence. The episode also delves into the mysteries of hypnosis, false memories, and historical conspiracy theories, including the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy and the curious connections to mind-control narratives. With a blend of humor and skepticism, Dwayne, Koji, and Cat, with guest comedian Ben Morrison, explore the intersections of consumerism, environmentalism, and socio-political landscapes, offering a fresh perspective on the hidden strings of social media and cultural phenomena.

ABOUT OUR GUEST/HOST

Ben Morrison is a Los Angeles-based actor, writer, comedian, and filmmaker who trained at NYU’s TISCH School of the Arts before becoming a stand-up regular at the Improv and Laugh Factory. He has written and acted in The Telethon for America and was a head writer for Funny You Should Ask. On-screen, he’s known for NCIS, MTV’s Punk’d, Mr. Box Office, and films like Ouija Exorcism and 30 Nights of Paranormal Activity. His comedy credits include appearances on Last Comic Standing and Gotham Comedy Live, and he created Superfunny!, a monthly showcase at the Hollywood Improv.

RESEARCH

We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.

https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assassination_of_Robert_F._Kennedy

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/true-crime/wp/2018/06/04/the-assassination-of-bobby-kennedy-was-sirhan-sirhan-hypnotized-to-be-the-fall-guy/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/retropolis/wp/2018/05/26/who-killed-bobby-kennedy-his-son-rfk-jr-doesnt-believe-it-was-sirhan-sirhan/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MKUltra

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assassination_of_Robert_F._Kennedy#:~:text=Forensic%20audio%20specialists%20Wes%20Dooley,they%20walked%20towards%20the%20kitchen

https://aadl.org/node/200562

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirhan_Sirhan#:~:text=The%20assassination%20spawned%20many%20conspiracy,a%20second%20gunman%20was%20involved

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/true-crime/wp/2018/06/06/the-bobby-kennedy-assassination-tape-were-13-shots-fired-or-only-8/

ABOUT US

What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening. 

Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w

CREDITS

The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.

Written by Koji Steven Sakai

Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai

In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Michelle and Koji explore the unique journey of Japanese immigrants adapting to life in the U.S. They delve into the cultural crossroads and identity challenges faced by these individuals, from nostalgic childhood dreams influenced by American commercials to the bittersweet farewell to Japanese citizenship. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt stories, listeners gain insight into the resilience required to blend traditions and find a sense of home in a foreign land. The episode also highlights the small, everyday connections that define American culture and the warmth of shared experiences. With chapter discussions ranging from immigration hurdles to the nuances of cheering for athletes during international sports events, this episode offers a rich narrative of embracing new beginnings and balancing cultural identities.

You can listen to the whole episode here.

Dive into the hilariously outlandish world of science fiction and conspiracy theories with this side-splitting podcast episode that takes you on a joyride through the universe’s quirkiest secrets. We kick off with a debate about the critical importance of lightsaber colors in Star Wars—because everyone knows picking the wrong color could turn your Jedi feng shui into a cosmic disaster. This whimsical discussion opens the floodgates to a galaxy of fandoms, sprinkled with enough absurdity to make even a Wookiee snort with laughter.

Dwayne Perkins, Koji Steven Sakai, and guest host Jonesy take listeners on a comedic journey through ancient myths and wildly speculative theories about Stargates, suggesting that your GPS might just be influenced by some interstellar jokester. They even tackle the mysteries of the Antikythera device with a raised eyebrow, hypothesizing about lost technologies and time-altering gadgets that would make Doc Brown’s DeLorean look like a rusty old tricycle. In a playful twist, the episode throws in some contemporary political figures, hilariously speculating on the influence of ‘alien’ entities—because let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to blame their latest political blunder on E.T.? Packed with laughter, curiosity, and storytelling as imaginative as a three-headed space llama, this episode is your one-way ticket to a galaxy far, far away where humor and human imagination reign supreme. Grab your tinfoil hat and join the fun!

ABOUT OUR GUEST/HOST

Touring standup comedian and actor seen on Letterman Show, Gotham, Drunk History, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and more. Host of the Weird AF News podcast and co-host of Comedians React.

RESEARCH

We do most of our research online… because why not? Here are the links we quoted from or used for background or inspiration.

https://beingamber.medium.com/the-mystical-portals-across-the-globe-stargates-c3bc80eb248a

https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20210502-the-unsolved-mystery-of-sri-lankas-stargate

Stargates and Portals, modes of Interstellar Travel

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stargate_Project

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stargate_Project_(U.S._Army_unit)

https://www.warhistoryonline.com/war-articles/project-stargate.html

ABOUT US

What are “they” not telling us? We’ll find out, figure out, and, when all else fails, make up the missing pieces to some of the most scandalous, unexplained phenomena, and true crime affecting our world today. Join comedian Dwayne Perkins, writer Koji Steven Sakai, and comedian/actor/writer Cat Alvarado on The Unofficial Official Story Podcast every month, and by the end of each episode, we’ll tell you what’s really…maybe…happening.

Website: http://unofficialofficialstory.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/theunofficialofficialstorypod/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unoffoffstorypodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxGCoSTC0bmTk5GVFHP4l3w

CREDITS

The intro and outro song was created by Brian “Deep” Watters. You can hear his music at https://soundcloud.com/deepwatters.

Written by Koji Steven Sakai

Hosts: Cat Alvarado, Dwayne Perkins, and Koji Steven Sakai

Edited and Produced by Koji Steven Sakai

In this poignant episode of the Japanese American Podcast, we explore the incredible journey of Holocaust survivor Solly Ganor and his unexpected salvation by Japanese American soldiers during World War II. Through Solly’s harrowing experiences on a death march from the Dachau death camp, listeners are introduced to the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion—soldiers who defied prejudice and became beacons of hope for many. Joined by guest Naoyuki Ikeda, the episode delves into the inner conflicts faced by these Japanese American soldiers, who were fighting abroad while their families faced internment back home. Featuring real stories of courage and kindness, including the actions of Sergeant Imamura and Chiune Sugihara, this episode highlights the complexities of wartime morality and the profound impact of individual acts of bravery. 

For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org. 

This episode the wonderful voice work of actor and friend of the podcast Naoyuki Ikeda.

Here are some of the links we used to help us write this episode:

https://www.sollyganor.com/

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/sugihara/readings/ganor.html

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by US Holocaust Memorial Museum (@holocaustmuseum)

Eric Saul on Solly Ganor and the Holocaust

https://www.sollyganor.com/unlikely-liberators-virtual-exhibit

CREDITS

The music was created by Jalen Blank

Written by Koji Steven Sakai

Hosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven Sakai

Additional Voice by Naoyuki Ikeda

Edited and produced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum

EXCLUSIVE: Halo and Classified filmmaker Roel Reiné is set to direct American Smuggler, the upcoming action-drama starring 24, Major League and Far From Heaven actor Dennis Haysbert.

The film will chart the relentless hunt for Craig Petties, an American drug trafficker best known for the criminal empire he led in Memphis while operating in collaboration with Mexico’s infamous drug cartels. Haysbert will play a prominent CIA agent in the film. Filming is due to get underway this summer in New Mexico.

The project will hone in on the efforts of SEAL Team Six, Delta Force and the Mexican Marines, who painstakingly dismantled an international drug network that plagued communities across North America for decades. The story also brings to light the lesser-known tragedy of children forced to labor in El Chapo’s infamous tunnels, often losing their lives in collapses. Petties was sentenced to life in prison in 2013 at age 36 for his trafficking career and connection to multiple homicides.

The film is being written by Koji Steven Sakai (Skeletons in the Closet), Sam Wildhorse Bass of EuroAmerica Films and Tracy Matthews of Lion of Judah Productions. The screenplay will be based on Matthews’ experience as a civilian team leader during the operation.

Producers are David M. Matthews of Stone Gate Entertainment; Cheryl Martin and Troy Allen of CMA Entertainment; Jarnell Stokes, Isaiah Stokes, and Aisha Wynn of Stoked Bros Media; and Lion of Judah Productions. 

Haysbert shares executive producer credits with Geevani Singh and retired member of SEAL Team Six Don Mann. Former professional football player and Navy SEAL Damian Jackson will consult.

Haysbert is best known for portraying President David Palmer in hit series 24, for which he was Golden Globe nominated, baseball player Pedro Cerrano in the Major League film trilogy, and for his role in Todd Haynes’ acclaimed drama Far From Heaven.

Reiné began his directing career in the Netherlands, where he won the Dutch Academy Award for Best Director with his first theatrical feature, The Delivery. His credits include historical features Admiral and Redbad and TV series Halo, Marvel-Inhumans, and Wu Assassins. Most recently, Reiné directed the feature Classified starring Aaron Eckhart and Tim Roth.

https://deadline.com/2025/04/dennis-haysbert-movie-american-smuggler-director-roel-reine-1236376854/